Transfer of 20 Dogs To Italy Cancelled After Inspection

A group of 20 bully-type dogs will not be sent to Dog Town SRL, a kennel in the province of Caserta, Italy, the Office of the Commissioner for Animal Welfare confirmed on Monday following an on-site inspection.

The inspection followed concerns raised by animal rights group Vuci Għall-Annimali and other NGOs regarding the planned transfer scheduled for Wednesday, 17 December 2025. Commissioner for Animal Welfare Dr Fleur Abela, accompanied by MSPCA General Manager Ms Mary Cassar Torregiani, visited Dog Town SRL in Naples to verify permits, licensing, and the conditions in which the animals would be kept.

Although the shelter administration provided documentation and assurances, the Office of the Commissioner determined that the transfer should not proceed, acting in the dogs’ best interests. The recommendation was immediately communicated to the Office of Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Dr Alicia Bugeja Said, which endorsed the cancellation of the transfer.

Following the inspection, eight of the dogs have been identified for rehoming on Malta. The remaining 12 will remain under the care of the Animal Welfare Directorate while further arrangements are made. This action ensures that all 20 dogs are monitored in secure conditions on the island and will not be sent to a facility where welfare concerns had been raised.

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